Best of Venice

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Departing from your ship, you'll board a water transport for a scenic ride on the Giudecca canal, taking you to your destination for the day - St. Mark's Square, or as it's known locally Piazza San Marco.

Considered one of the most beautiful Piazzas in the world, it is also one of the most famous. As you may expect, it's abuzz with activity. Music is floating in the air. The Piazza originated in the 9th century as a small area in front of the original St. Mark's Basilica. It was enlarged to its present size and shape in 1177 and has always been the center of Venice and Venetian life.

Your knowledgeable guide will give you a brief introduction to the area before escorting you to one of the major structures in the Square, and in the history of city, the Doge's Palace.

Not only the home of the Doge, Venice's elected ruler, the Palace was also the city's seat of government for centuries, and where some of the most important decisions for Venice's, and even Europe's destiny took place. Transgressions were taken very seriously. Thus, the Bridge of Sighs was built to link the Palace directly to the city's prison dungeons. When you look at the bridge, you'll notice two small windows. They provided prisoners their last look at Venice before being locked up. The name comes from their sighs of despair.

Built more like a castle than a palace, the Palace's ornate façade is a classic example of Venetian gothic architecture. As you tour its stunning interior, you will get to see the famous Golden Staircase, the Great Council Chamber, and paintings by such masters as Tintoretto and Veronese.

After your 70-minute visit to the magnificent Palace, you'll have a short walk to another of the Square's dominating, but striking buildings, St. Mark's Basilica.

A breath-taking landmark, this famous basilica is unlike any other. A testament to Byzantium's influence on Venice, it's adorned with golden facade mosaics, marble and bronze statues, and five domes, reminiscent of St. Sophia in Istanbul. You'll have an inside-view of the splendor that reflects not only Christian devotion, but also the wealth and success of this great city.

As if the Basilica wasn't dazzling enough, your last stop is truly sparkling. A short walk from the church is the Murano Glass Showroom. The unique beauty of Venetian glass has been much sought-after since 1291. Here, in the heart of Venice, you will get to see a demonstration of the ancient craft of glass blowing as well as shop for pieces for your own collection.

Your adventure comes to end as you re-board your motor launch and return to your ship filled with memories of a lifetime.

Special Notes:

This tour is not available to passengers beginning or ending their voyage in Venice.

The order of sites visited may vary.

On Sunday mornings, church holidays or during services, tour groups are not allowed inside St. Mark's Basilica. However, time permitting and if the church permits, entry may be allowed on an individual basis to view the interior quietly and reverently; your guide will not be able to enter with you. Tours are also not allowed inside the Cathedral during high tide in which case the main entrance will be blocked. Proper attire that covers shoulders and knees must be worn by both men and women in St. Mark's Basilica.
In order to access the Doge's Palace and in compliance to safety and security measures manual metal detector controls are mandatory for each single Guest.

As this excursion involves extensive walking over uneven surfaces, it is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties.
The venues are not accessible to wheelchairs.

Photography is not permitted inside the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Please be aware that ongoing restoration work is often being carried out at the various venues visited.

Crowds and delays may be encountered at the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Cathedral.

For security reasons, large bags, backpacks, etc, must be checked before entering the venues. It is recommended to not bring such items during this tour in order to avoid long waits at the checkroom.

Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.